DAILY HOMILIES #Maximilian Kolbe

Forgiveness is hard, but it is possible. It is like crossing a river on foot. In today’s First Reading, God instructs Joshua on how the Israelites were to cross the River Jordan. Joshua told the people: “…this is how you will know that there is a living God in your midst…” Let us go on our knees daily to ask God for the grace to do the impossible – that is, to forgive others (to free them from the prisons of hate within our hearts). This is our way of crossing the River Jordan to the land flowing with milk and honey (that is, peace of mind)

This attitude of Jesus teaches us a great lesson: Even if we are right, there is no need to offend anyone. It is not enough to do what is right; we must refrain from sending the wrong message to those who may need help understanding us. Like Jesus, who presented himself for baptism even though he was sinless, we must strive to fulfil all righteousness. Hence, even though we do not belong to this world, we cannot evade the payment of taxes.